Letter: Woodland is now unsuitable to hold events

As the founder of an organisation forged to benefit the Scarborough community and protect a precious woodland, I write to question the Raincliffe Woods Community Enterprise.

Three weeks ago, an organisation approached me to look at the possibility of a woodland event in Raincliffe Woods.

It was to be a three-day event over the May Bank Holiday. It would have centred around traditional woodland crafts, and based on the previously successful ‘Secret Wood’ events, including horse logging, wood carving, making rustic furnishing etc.

But sadly after a site visit it was seen to be no longer suitable. One of the main reasons for that decision was the state of pathways and the amount of discarded brash and exposed tree stumps which would prevent people getting safely to the events and thus prove unsuitable on health and safety grounds. The organisers are now looking for a suitable site within the Dales area.

I am most disappointed, as I am sure the people of Scarborough will be at the loss.

As the founder of Raincliffe Woods Community Enterprise I am ashamed of the way the community has been treated when after four years there is nothing to show for this enterprise than a trail of destruction and a lost opportunity to do something positive for the whole community.

The organisation, along with the tacit approval Scarborough Borough Council, seems to lack any understanding of the ‘community element’ for which Raincliffe Woods Community Enterprise should stand.

John Bradley

Sutton-in-Craven

North Yorkshire